The Essential Equipment for Puppies and Kittens

Is a new kitten or puppy moving in with you soon? Are you looking forward to the long-awaited arrival day and want to prepare everything at home for your new housemate?

Here we present a list of things you'll need as basic equipment at home:

Basic Equipment for Kittens

Food and water bowl: Cats need food bowls for dry and wet food, as well as several waterers. Choose different materials, as kittens' preferences vary.

litter box: Set up at least one litter box more than the number of cats living in your household. This means: For one kitten, you need two litter boxes; for two kittens, at least three.

cat litter: Ask the previous owner what type of litter your cat was used to and only slowly switch to a new type of litter after the acclimatization period.

Cat food: Here too, it is advisable to inquire about the kitten's previous feeding habits and to provide the familiar food initially. Any food change to a different kitten food should be done slowly and only after the acclimatization period.

Toys: By playing frequently with your kitten, you strengthen your bond with them. Especially suitable as first toys are fishing rods, fur mice and balls.

cat scratcher: Scratching is a natural behavior for cats to mark territory and sharpen their claws. If no suitable scratching opportunity is provided, your kitten will find its own spots to satisfy this need. To prevent various furniture pieces from being used, a cat scratcher or scratching furniture should be made available to the kitten.

carrier: A carrier or a mobile kennel is essential to safely transport the kitten in the car.

Sleeping place: For many cats, a simple blanket on the sofa is enough as a sleeping place. However, some also love their own cozy cat bed!

Grooming articles: If you get a long-haired cat, you will also need a coat brush, with which you can accustom the kitten to being brushed from an early age. Of course, short-haired cats also enjoy some grooming!

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Basic Equipment for Puppies

Food and water bowl: For your dog, you need one bowl each for food and water. Since puppies like to knock over their bowls, choose stable models for the first bowls that are wider at the bottom than at the top.

Puppy harness, Collar & leash: Puppy harness, Collar, and leash must be adapted to your dog's size. Therefore, be sure to ask the breeder for the appropriate size and then check the fit of the harness or Collar weekly.

Dog food: Inquire with the breeder about the puppy's previous feeding habits and provide the familiar food initially. Any food change to a different puppy food should be done slowly and only after the acclimatization period.

Treats: Training with your puppy begins on the first day at home. A tasty treat as a reward ensures good motivation.

Puppy toys: Playing quickly helps build a bond between you and your puppy. Especially suitable as toys are plush toys, play ropes and rings.

Potty Training: House-training can be simplified with training spray and puppy pads.

mobile kennel: A mobile kennel is essential for safe transport in the car. The size must be adapted to the adult dog and the car.

Sleeping place: A puppy needs a quiet place in the apartment where it can rest undisturbed. You can provide it with a bed, a basket or a Crate.

Grooming articles: Accustom your dog to regular coat care already as a puppy. You will need a brush, a comb and a puppy shampoo, which are adapted to the dog's respective coat type.

Once you have all the necessary items for the basic equipment, don't forget that your new family member primarily needs your love, patience, and empathy!